Overview

APSU's Online Professional Science Master's

Austin Peay State University offers a Professional Science Master (P.S.M.) degree program that may be completed entirely online.

Unlike Master of Science (M.S.) programs in science and technology, APSU's P.S.M. program provides an alternative to research-focused doctoral programs. The program allows students to pursue the study of a branch of science or mathematics related to their careers while focusing on the development of professional skills in business, law, policy, and communication. The program thus caters to college graduates working in industry or military who would like technical master's degrees to advance their careers.

Concentrations in Data Management and Analysis, or Predictive Analytics

This online degree program enables students to pursue studies in one of 2 areas of concentration: data management and analysis, or predictive analytics. The concentration in data management and analysis is offered through the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology. The concentration in predictive analysis is supported by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Admission Requirements to the Professional Science Masters

Each applicant must submit official GRE scores, official transcripts from all the colleges attended, and a resume listing 3 references. Each applicant must have completed his or her bachelor's degree with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher. There are no specific prerequisite courses; however, a background in quantitative literacy, algebra, and computer programming is desirable.

In addition, applicants must each write a one-page personal essay describing their career goals, why they wish to pursue a Professional Science Master degree, and their prior work and research experience in quantitative and analytical studies.

A Dedicated, Professional Faculty

The faculty in the College of Science and Mathematics at Austin Peay State University includes enthusiastic academics with backgrounds in research and industry.

Dr. Jaime Taylor, the Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics, has experience in both industry and academia. He worked at NASA's Marshal Space Flight Center to develop a fast algorithm for sunspot tracking. He also helped develop military and space based applications of the Pulse Coupled Neural Networks at the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command. At APSU, he has developed new courses and programs and enthusiastically supported the development of the Professional Science Master program.

Tuition Reduction for Online Students

Because coursework for the Professional Science Masters at APSU can be completed online, graduate students may qualify for the eRate tuition discount. Out-of-state students pay only half the normal cost of out-of-state tuition. This is equivalent to about one and a half times in-state tuition.

To be eligible for eRate, students must be classified as nonresidents of Tennessee and they must be enrolled exclusively in online courses. However, the residents of 7 Kentucky counties are also eligible for in-state tuition.

A Fast-Growing, Military-Friendly University

Austin Peay State University is a 4-year, public, master's-level university in Clarksville, Tennessee. Serving approximately 11,000 students, APSU is the fastest growing university in the state of Tennessee.

The university's satellite campus at Fort Campbell military installation serves active duty military personnel, veterans, family members, and civilians. Austin Peay State University has been named a Best for Vets College by "Military Times" magazine and a Military Friendly School by "G.I. Jobs" magazine. APSU is the only higher educational institution in Tennessee to receive both these awards in 2012-13.

APSU is also a SOCAD university. SOCAD institutions accept each other's courses in particular programs of study. In this way, Army soldiers and their family members can move from one institution to another without losing college credit.